Cordell Jigsaw Zapruder (CJZ) has acquired major New Zealand production company Greenstone TV. The announcement comes on the heels of the appointment of Matt Campbell as CEO of CJZ.
Joining forces creates a powerful platform to continue delivering original programming in a market dominated by European and U.S. formats.
Greenstone TV has been producing award-winning factual entertainment, documentaries and drama for nineteen years. Founded by veteran producer John Harris, the company is responsible for over a hundred titles and has fourteen shows in production in 2013. Australian audiences are already familiar with many of their popular series including: The Zoo, Highway Patrol, Coastwatch, Motorway Patrol and Serious Crash Unit.
Greenstone’s titles will strengthen CJZ’s existing catalogue of programmes including: Bondi Rescue – winner of six Logies, the Gruen franchise (Planet, Nation and Sweat) – winner of the 2013 Rose d’Or for Best Light Entertainment and Go Back to Where You Came From – winner of the 2012 Golden Rose for Best Television Program in any genre and nominated for an upcoming International Emmy.
“This is an important step for both companies,” says Nick Murray – Managing Director of CJZ. “We have a huge amount of respect for John Harris and his team and the quality of Greenstone’s programs. Their creative output dovetails perfectly with the successful and original content we provide networks here in Australia and internationally. This deal gives us the platform to build the CJZ group for the future.”
Michael Cordell – CJZ Creative Director says; “New Zealand is one of the great creative hothouses for new programming and bold programming. The size of the market encourages innovation and lateral thinking. We’re thrilled to be joining creative forces with the fantastic team at Greenstone to develop new shows for the international market across all genres. Plus the Kiwis do brilliant pinot noir.”
“It felt like the right time to make this move,” says Greenstone founder John Harris. “I have a high regard for the CJZ team and the new relationship will allow Greenstone to continue to grow in its own right. We share similar values, high standards and a deep respect for our production staff. It‘s a perfect fit.”
John Harris continues with Greenstone in an advisory capacity while General Manager – Bryan Hall, Head of Production – Andrea Lamb and Financial Controller – Glenda Paterson will remain at the helm. Auckland based Greenstone is currently in production on returning series of Highway Patrol, Renters, Motorway Patrol, Neighbours at War, Border Patrol, Dog Squad, Highway Cops and new series Coastwatch Australia and Showtime.
Tim Knapton at Horizon Advisory advised CJZ on the transaction.
